EURO MP Jill Evans yesterday announced she would not run for the Plaid Cymru leadership.

Mrs Evans said she had decided not to stand "at this time" after consulting colleagues and family. But she does not appear to have ruled out running again in the future, having lost out previously to Ieuan Wyn Jones.

A day after nominations opened to succeed Mr Jones no one has formally declared their intention to stand, although a number are considering running.

Mrs Evans said, "After very careful consideration and having spoken to colleagues friends and family I have decided not to stand for the presidency of the party at this time. In the coming year I believe that I can best serve the interests of Plaid Cymru and my constituents by focusing my efforts on the next European elections in June 2004."